Why offloading Arda Turan is the only way forward for Barcelona

Arda Turan has been abysmal since joining Barcelona in the summer of 2015. Signed for €34 million plus seven in variables, the former Atletico Madrid star was meant to be competing with Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic for a regular spot in Barca's starting eleven. Three years and only 55 appearances later, it is safe to say that Turan has failed to meet the high expectations that were placed when he landed at the Camp Nou.

Turan is paid a mind-boggling €8M per year, which makes him the sixth best paid footballer in the Barcelona squad. Not having played a single minute of official football since the arrival of Ernesto Valverde, it can come as no surprise that the Catalans are looking to offload the Turkish international in the upcoming winter transfer window.

Unfortunately, finding a team capable of taking Turan is not proving an easy task. The former Atletico Madrid star refused a moved back to Turkey in the summer and his views don't seem to have changed much despite not having played any part in Barcelona's season so far.

Galatasaray are the only team that have reportedly shown an interest in adding Turan to their squad in January but, understandably, they are struggling to fund the transfer given his incredibly high wages at Barca. The clubs are in advanced negotiations, so let's hope the Turkish directors can find a sponsor soon and make the move happen.

Offloading Turan is essential for Barcelona to free much-needed wage space. Barcelona's future transfers will only be completed if the Catalans have enough money in the bank to afford their salaries. We talked about potential signings, and other players who should be sold, right here. Listen now: